Solid Food: When is the best time to introduce?

Tired of bottle-feeding or breastfeeding? Relax. Around four to six months of age, it is safe to introduce solid foods into your child's diet. When he or she reaches this age, developmental milestones are achieved, enabling him or her to begin eating solid foods. The key to successfully starting foods is to look for those landmarks. Remember each child develops differentially.

• Does your child have the ability to control his or her head and the ability to maintain a sitting position?
  
• Can she grab a spoon or fork? While eating, you may notice that your child may begin to grab your fork or grab your mouth.
  
• Does she have the ability to chew? You may notice her beginning to mimic chewing motion while you eat.
  
• Does she seem curious about your eating habits? Does she mimic you or grab food on your plate?
  
• Has she doubled her body weight since birth? This usually occurs by six months of age.
  

If you child has exhibited any of the above milestones: you may introduce solid foods into your child's diet. If he or she spits out the food after feeding, this indicates that your child may not be ready for solid foods. Alternatively, your child may show disinterest in solid foods. Wait another week before introducing. Presenting foods to early may result in your child acquiring allergies. In addition, if you are considering using an infant feeder it can be harmful. An infant feeder is a device, which forces food through a nipple. Many advertisers describe it as an easy transition between bottle-feeding and spoon-feeding. However, using this device may result in your child being force-fed; resulting in underfeeding of formula and/or breastmilk. Your child will let you know when he or she is ready; Allow him or her to set his or her own pace.

A helpful way to introduce solids is one item every three to five days. This enables you to determine if your child has allergic reactions. Iron fortified cereals (such as infant rice) are a good introductory food because there's a small chance of an allergic reaction. Proceed to introduce pureed vegetables and fruits.

Eating is a new skill. Patience is essential. Don't remove formula or breastmilk from your child's diet yet. These nutrients are still required. Your child formula and breastmilk needs will decrease in the next few months, once he or she reaches 12 months of age you may discontinue formula or breast milk.

Good Luck and Good Eating!

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